LONDON — Public affairs and strategic communications firm Rud Pedersen Group has opened in Latvia, via a partnership with Vilands Associates.

Rud Pedersen has bought a minority stake in the 25-strong Riga-based communications and public affairs agency, which may be increased in the future.

Vilands Associates is comprised of twin companies VA Communications and VA Government, which form the largest communications and public affairs group in Latvia, with a combined turnover of more than €2 million in 2021. Both companies jointly develop a sustainability consulting practice, VA Purpose.

All three entities have added Rud Pedersen Group branding and become part of the group. VA Communications and VA Government have already worked with Rud Pedersen Group on shared projects.

The move gives Rud Pedersen a presence in 11 countries throughout Europe, with 350 employees, and greater strength in the Baltic region in particular, where it also opened a new office in Warsaw earlier this year.

Rud Pedersen Group CEO and president Morten Rud Pedersen (pictured, centre) said: “With our strong Nordic heritage, the expansion to the Baltic was logical and we are now happy to be in all three Baltic countries. VA Communications and VA Government are companies built by entrepreneurs who wanted to challenge the market, just like we do in the Rud Pedersen Group.”

Ralfs Vīlands, partner at VA Communications and VA Government (pictured, second left), added: “We immediately found common ground with the Rud Pedersen Group. We share a similar internal culture and vision of the future growth. The role of players on the regional level is growing rapidly, increasing the need for companies like the Rud Pedersen Group in the international professional services market. Therefore, we have chosen to go further together and build a powerful alliance that brings even more added value to our team and our clients.”